State Sen. ERIC GIDDENS (D-Cedar Falls)

As Iowa’s 2024 legislative session kicked off last week, I want to take a moment to say hello and thanks for your engagement in Iowa’s future. This year, I’m committed to living our Iowa values and offering A Better Deal for Iowans.

To do that, we need passionate Iowans like you to stay informed and stay active as the legislative process plays out over the coming weeks and months. And with this weekly newsletter, I aim to help you do exactly that.

This year, I’m focused on policies that increase opportunity, defend freedom, and ensure accountability for Iowans. I’m going to fight for our values, and demand that my colleagues listen to Iowa families – not just special interests.

You can help me in that effort. Speak up for the issues you care about, stand up for our shared values, follow along on social media, and share this newsletter with a friend so they can get involved, too.

You can also reach me directly at Eric.Giddens@legis.iowa.gov or 319-230-0578. Listening to your concerns, advancing your interests, and making our community an even better place to live is my job, so please reach out!

Celebrating MLK

This past Monday, we celebrated the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., and recommit ourselves to the cause of justice and equality for all. Every Iowan and every American deserves opportunity to succeed in our society, freedom to live the lives they want, and accountability from their government. That’s what we’re working toward.

Condition of the State

The governor offered a mixed bag in her annual Condition of the State Address last week. On the one hand, she proposed pay raises for teachers and expanded healthcare for new moms – ideas that align with long-standing priorities of mine. On the other, she’s pushing changes to the state’s Area Education Agencies that would harm rural Iowa and another round of income tax cuts that favor the privileged over middle-class and working Iowans. I’ll work with anyone on legislation that advances Iowa values – and stand up to any plans that undermine those values.

Thanking our public servants

Much of Iowa endured two major winter storms last week, with heavy snowfall and high winds. I want to thank our snow removal personnel and law enforcement members for keeping our roads safe and clear for all our citizens. This is what government does, and this is who public servants are: the unnamed and seldom thanked unsung heroes who do their jobs with dedication and professionalism and make life better for all of us. Thank you!

Summer EBT Rejection

I disagree with the governor’s decision late last year to refuse federal food aid for children, as reports show that food insecurity is growing in Iowa. I have joined several of my colleagues to introduce legislation this week that would require the state to pursue the program. I hope the rest of our colleagues will join us quickly in to meet the growing food insecurity crisis in Iowa.

Book Bans

Hundreds of books – including works of classic literature — have been removed from Iowa school libraries and classrooms as schools try to comply with a new law banning certain books. But here’s the good news: in December, a federal judge blocked enforcement of the law, meaning the book bans and other problematic pieces of SF 496 are on hold while the federal courts consider whether such restrictions are constitutional.

Hunting seasons ending soon

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources reminds Iowans that several hunting seasons close in early winter. Quail, partridge, grouse, and squirrel seasons close Jan. 31, while rabbit season and the furbearer hunting and trapping season close on Feb. 28. Fur harvesters may continue trapping beavers until April 15. Game bird hunters must register for the Harvest Information Program.

State Senator Eric Giddens represents Iowa Senate District 38 including Cedar Falls, Hudson, Traer, Dysart, Evansdale, Elk Run Heights, Gilbertville, Washburn, La Porte City and Mount Auburn. Contact Sen. Giddens at 319-230-0578 or eric.giddens@legis.iowa.gov.